WVFF Announces Awardees of Momentum Initiative Grant

WEST VIRGINIA (December 23, 2025) – The West Virginia First Foundation (WVFF) is excited to announce the recipients of the Momentum Initiative Grant (MIG), nearly $18 million to support high-impact initiatives addressing substance use disorder, prevention, recovery, and workforce and system capacity across West Virginia.

Approved by the WVFF Board of Directors earlier this month, MIG represents a landmark opioid abatement investment and reflects a revolutionary, nationally distinctive model for stewarding settlement dollars, one that combines objective evaluation and local expertise. Funding was awarded to 76 projects spanning statewide and regional target areas, reflecting both community-driven priorities and statewide need. A full list of awardees is provided here.

MIG investments will support a broad range of efforts, including foster care and non-parental caregiver initiatives, youth prevention, recovery housing, behavioral health and workforce development, and reentry and diversion programs. Collectively, these investments are designed to strengthen systems of care, expand access to services, and promote long-term, sustainable impact for West Virginians.

“We were intentional in building a structure that reflects both feedback and best practices,” said Greg Duckworth, WVFF Board Chairman. “What emerged is a landmark opioid abatement model, distinct from any other foundation of its kind, made possible by volunteer Board Members and Expert Panelists dedicated to serving West Virginia.”

To support consistency and objectivity, the WVFF review process followed a structured, multi-step approach. This first-of-its-kind model engaged local expert panelists, statewide leaders in their fields, neutral and objective data-driven specialists, and the full Board of Directors (both locally-elected and appointed). Independent, outcomes-based scoring was conducted and focused on program design, feasibility, and potential impact.

“The Momentum Initiative Grant reflects a new way of responding to the substance use crisis; one grounded in evidence, shaped by local expertise, and guided by accountability,” said Jonathan Board, WVFF Executive Director. “We traveled the state, listened to those holding the line in their communities, and answered the call to honor the lives lost by putting these resources into the hands of those ready to create real, lasting impact for West Virginia.”